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February 1st, 2008
Welcome, loyal Portland Picks for Men readers, to our first ever Valentine’s Day Gift Guide. Below are the fruits of our laborious efforts to find and select the best options for a Portland Gentleman's V-Day dollar. As always, we aim to keep it local, creative, and most of all, fun. Whether you are looking for something to do, some place to go, or something to buy, the following choices will deliver to our exceedingly high PPFM standards. And for you gents who happen to have no-one special this year, keep in mind two things:
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Portland Picks for Men's Valentine's Day Gift Guide: |
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Living in the Portland often provides the opportunity to buy the best while still shopping local. This extends beyond sneakers to world-famous chocolates from Moonstruck Chocolate Co. Based in NoPo, they have five choco-centric cafés that will keep you coming back well after V-day. This year's Valentine Collection includes the chocolatier's first sea-salt caramels, plus a number of whimsical and sophisticated products that offer something to please every palate and personality. Moonstruck Chocolate Café |
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Just because we're in the Rose City doesn't mean we have to stick to that staid blossom. Quince is who you call when you want something more exciting than a dozen roses. We appreciate that they use local growers as much as possible, and that they will deliver a unique bouquet anywhere in Portland on the big day (even to the restaurant where your romantic dinner is taking place). Quince Flowers & Events |
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Let's get down to brass tacks—setting the mood is imperative, right? Flora can help you with this. In addition to some interesting gift options, they are a must-visit for mood-setting accessories. In the scent department, they offer everything from top-quality jasmine to lavender, but trust us and ask them about the love potion. And for the ever-important lighting situation, check out their salt lights: all pink and glowy, they are bedside perfection. Flora |
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What better way to make the most of your special evening than treating her to a gift of spa and wellness? And for Valentine's Day, Root Whole Body is including a great bottle of red wine with the purchase of an $80 gift card! Give her a wonderfully relaxing massage or yoga package, accompanied by some great wine… assuring you a relaxed and grateful amoré. Root Whole Body |
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In case you haven't noticed, many of our gift suggestions are made for your enjoyment as well. Perfect example: lingerie from Lille Boutique. Sexy but never sleazy, it's a gift for both of you. Lille carries sets made of natural fibers that actually feel good, so she's sure to wear them, unlike those silly edible undies you gave her last year. Get her a gift card today so she can get custom fitted before the big night! Lille Boutique |
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What is it about a hotel stay that just, well, spices everything up? And while Valentine's Day may not be full-vacation worthy, it certainly warrants a few nights at a fab hotel in Seattle. With their three unique downtown hotels (The Alexis, Hotel Monaco, and Hotel Vintage Park), the Kimpton Group has the market cornered on it-spots in the Emerald City. We know what you’re thinking: At this time of year the weather will likely keep you inside. Wouldn't that be a shame? |
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If you catch your sweetheart watching “What Not to Wear” or other makeover shows, the perfect gift for her is Inspire Style Coaching's Valentine Special. She'll love having a pro help her get rid of unwanteds from her closet and advise her on the fabulous articles that flatter her body and style. And bonus, you'll love it when she quits asking, “Do these jeans make my butt look big?” |
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If her sweet tooth craves something a bit more decadent, look no further than Cupcake Jones. Not only are their creations filled with yummy goodness (think an uptown Ding-Dong), but most are topped with novelties like candied rose petals or white chocolate pearls, making them little edible works of art. There's even a little red bow and hand-written note. Plus, having a dozen cupcakes delivered to her sends just the right message, if you know what we mean. Cupcake Jones |
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| 9 | Space Design Space Design |
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For something a bit more cutting-edge, buy her a gift certificate to Exhilarate Bodyworks. Above and beyond their acclaimed tanning services, they offer the Formostar body wrap. All the rage in Europe, the procedure burns up to 1,200 calories per session with a heat that penetrates twice as deep as traditional heat. Targeting toxins and cellulite, it even relieves chronic pain. Show your continental side by sending her here for some pampering. Exhilarate Bodyworks |
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Ah, the dinner. While we love trying new bastions of culinary creativity on a regular basis, on nights like these, when the food must deliver, we make our reservations at the old standbys. A can't-miss option is McCormick & Schmick's. From the steaks and fresh seafood to the hand-crafted cocktails and attentive waitstaff, they consistently deliver, which will assure you a great night and, more importantly, a happy date. McCormick & Schmick’s |
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This one is for the new or soon-to-be fathers. Baby Boot Camp is an exercise program designed for both Mom and, that's right, baby! She wants to begin a fitness regimen again, but without interruption of the precious bonding with your new addition, right? The BBC Biggest Challenge solves this conundrum. Take 14% off your first class package when you mention PPFM! A perfect gift for the woman who gave you the greatest gift. Baby Boot Camp |
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There you have it gents. Everything she could want, wrapped up with a little bow right in your inbox. Should you choose to go it alone, good luck, and don't say we didn't warn you. |
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